Diane Alter

Singapore currently controls roughly 2% of global gold demand and aims to grow that share to some 10% to 15% over the next five to 10 years. A market expansion is expected to increase global demand for gold and silver bars and coins in the fourth quarter.

Fears over where the dollar is headed – especially with continued money printing from the central bank – has pushed safety-seekers into investing in silver and gold. The idea of using gold and silver as an alternative currency has spread as the metals have grown more valuable.

With ample stores and cheap prices, natural gas-related equities have taken a beating and continue to be battered. While it is always difficult to call a bottom, the tide may be turning for natural gas companies despite the latest data.

Investors will get a front row preview to the first quarter earnings season when bellwether Alcoa Inc. reports its results Tuesday after the close. The aluminum producer is expected to report a loss of 4 cents a share.